Susan Emanuel lived her life with heart, pride and deep devotion to the people and places she loved most.

A proud Wisconsin woman through and through, Susan carried “all things Wisconsin” with her wherever she lived. She was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and cheered just as passionately for the Milwaukee Brewers and the Wisconsin Badgers. Game days were serious business – full of spirit, loyalty and likely the right outfit for the occasion. Holidays were the same way. Susan loved to dress for the season, embracing every celebration with joy and flair.

She truly loved traveling – especially trips to Arizona and North Carolina to see friends – and treasured time spent with friends at local gathering spots, community parties, concerts, the beach and around the pool. She had a gift for conversation. Susan loved to talk to people, to connect, to laugh and to share stories – especially stories about her family. Few things brought her more joy than sharing photos of those she loved, speaking of them with unmistakable pride.

Susan was an avid online shopper and had a special fondness for Kohl’s. She delighted in buying gifts for friends and family, finding happiness in giving and surprising others with thoughtful gestures.

Her professional life was one of dedication and compassion. Susan took tremendous pride in being a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) for nearly 40 years. Through her long career at Lee Memorial Hospital, followed by her work with Pace Center for Girls, and 13 years serving PRN at Park Royal Hospital, she impacted countless lives. She worked with people during vulnerable moments, offering care, encouragement and dignity. Her career was not just a job – it was a calling she carried with pride.

Susan loved her parents deeply and spoke of them often, sometimes tearfully, missing them in a way that never faded. She was especially proud of her father and his role as a coach – a source of inspiration and admiration throughout her life. Memories of Wisconsin, the old days at the family cabin, and the years her parents spent as snowbirds in Florida remained close to her heart.

Though Wisconsin was woven into her identity, she found contentment living in Florida. She also kept a watchful eye on current events and politics, caring deeply about what was happening in the world around her.

Above all, Susan considered herself a Godly woman and a Christian. Her faith was part of her identity – quiet but foundational.

Susan Emanuel will be remembered for her loyalty, her conversations, her pride in her family, her generous spirit, her Wisconsin heart and the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures.

Her love for her parents was transformed in her love of her nieces and nephews. Her family stories, her teams, her holidays and her people will remain part of her legacy.

Susan is survived by her siblings, Barb Mieklejohn, Mary Jo Byrd and David Emanuel, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life in Susan’s memory will be announced in the near future.